Denise Robertson said: “There was a time when no one talked about dementia because of the social stigma but Memory Walk is really helping bring it out into the open here in the North where 35,000 people live with dementia.

“That’s a figure which is only going to rise which is why the money raised by the walkers is so important as is the greater awareness because it will encourage people who are concerned about memory loss to see their GP.

“Sadly, I have personal experience of dementia because a relative developed the condition so I know what a cruel disease it can be which is why I want to do my bit to help the Alzheimer’s Society.”

In an open letter before the walk, Donna said spoke of how her grandpa Joe had been affected by dementia.

The Alzheimer's Society Memory Walk on the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside

She said: “From what I have witnessed dementia seems like an incredibly cruel disease. It is hard enough losing someone you love once, let alone twice (which seems to be the case for families affected by dementia). It robs people of their life yet they are very much still alive.

“I am incredibly proud of my mum and her efforts to raise awareness and vital funds for Alzheimer’s Society through its Tyneside Memory Walk on Saturday, September 19.

“The Society is doing so much to provide services for people with dementia, campaigning to create dementia-friendly communities and also funding research.

“I really hope you can find it in your heart to support my mum and hundreds of thousands of other families who are affected by dementia with a generous donation via her online sponsorship page: www.justgiving.com/MARIE-AIR1/ .”

There were two routes available for those taking up Saturday’s challenge, one which was about 1.5 mile long and the other five-miles long and both are wheelchair and pushchair-friendly.